As U.S. Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand readies herself for a re-election bid next year, she is receiving early backing in the form of endorsements and fundraising appearances. Despite a few potential Democratic primary opponents, Gillibrand boasts a strong financial position for her re-election campaign, with over $6 million in cash on hand, according to recent campaign finance data. Gillibrand was first appointed to her seat in 2009 after Hillary Clinton was nominated to become secretary of state in the Obama administration.
In an early endorsement last month, the Westchester County Democrats praised Gillibrand’s contributions to gun legislation and her support for first responders affected by September 11-related illnesses. Party Chairwoman Suzanne Berger commended Gillibrand for securing “huge wins” for New York, including passing federal anti-gun trafficking legislation, a bill granting health coverage to millions of veterans exposed to toxins, and securing $1 billion for the 9/11 health program.
Fundraising efforts are also underway, with Gillibrand scheduled to appear alongside fellow statewide elected officials at a fundraiser for the Brooklyn Democratic Committee on July 31, and at a Democratic Rural Conference fundraiser in Lake George in August. The Democratic Rural Conference is a significant organization for the party outside of New York City and suburban counties. Among her declared Democratic primary opponents are Army veteran Will Schweitzer and Khaled Salem, while former Representative Lee Zeldin, a previous gubernatorial candidate, has not discounted a Senate bid on the Republican line.
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